EASA AD US-2018-11-08
Fuselage - Frame Web / Stub Beam Fitting Areas - Inspection
Summary
Federal Register Volume 83, Number 108 (AD 2018-11-08) is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA for certain Boeing 767-200 and 767-300 series airplanes. It mandates inspections of the fuselage frame web and stub beam fitting areas to detect cracks related to material review board (MRB) filler that may extend above the frame-to-stub-beam joint. The directive addresses structural integrity concerns due to cracking in the frame inner chord at specific stations.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a detailed inspection requirement for MRB filler in the frame web to stub-beam fitting area at stations 859.5, 883.5, and 903.5 on affected Boeing 767-200 and -300 airplanes. It also requires on-condition actions such as repetitive eddy current inspections and repairs if cracking is found. The AD clarifies that installation of Supplemental Type Certificate STC ST01920SE does not affect compliance requirements.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it ensures early detection and correction of cracks that could compromise the structural integrity of principal overwing stub frames. Operators and maintenance teams must address these issues to prevent potential failure under limit loads, thereby maintaining airworthiness and safety. Compliance helps avoid costly repairs and operational disruptions caused by undetected structural damage.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 767-200 and -300 series airplanes must perform a detailed inspection for MRB filler extending above the frame-to-stub-beam joint at specified stations. If cracks or filler issues are found, they must conduct repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections and repairs as necessary. All actions must be completed by the effective date of July 10, 2018, and compliance must follow Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-53A0278 RB dated June 30, 2017.
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